MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 1

The winner of the ―Bridges‖ Photo competition, sponsored by Peel

Valley Machinery was Lana Grant with this stunning image taken in

Oregon.

The next theme is ―Night Time‖

and will be sponsored by Merriwa

Sports Club. Entries need to be in by 12 noon Monday 29 July.

Published by: MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL

Bow Street, Merriwa 2329 Ph: 6548 2119 Fax: 6548 2534

Email: merriwa2-c.school@det.nsw.edu.au Online: www.merriwa-c.schools.nsw.edu.au

Issue 21Issue 21: : Thursday 19 July 2012

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 2

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 3

MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL

Important Dates

JULY Friday 20 - Year 6 MEGS Excursion to

Newcastle University Monday 23 - Year 11/12 Hospitality Excursion

to Newcastle Wednesday 25- Regional Athletics Carnival Thursday 26 - Parent/Teacher evening (Primary 3.30 to 5.30pm) (Secondary – 5.00 to 7.30pm) - Regional Athletics Carnival - Coolah Horse Sports Friday 27 - Primary Assembly 9.15am - Coolah Horse Sports AUGUST Wednesday 1 - Variety Night Concert - Twisted

Tales - 7pm

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT Welcome back to Term 3 of the school year after what I trust has been a relaxing holiday break. Year 12 students complete HSC courses this term and sit their Trial HSC exams in Week 6. A regular study timetable is needed between now and the exams. Parent teacher interviews Parent teacher interviews will take place next Thursday 26 July. By now all parents should have had the opportunity to discuss Semester 1 reports with their child. Please contact the Office to make an appointment with your child‘s teacher. Student Teachers visit We are fortunate to have two student teachers completing practical components of their studies with us this term. Emma Garbellini and Keira Hourn will be working with primary staff and students. It is important that we encourage and support the next generation of teachers in country schools. General Assistant appointed

Congratulations to Peter Stone who was successful at interview for the General Assistant position. Peter has been relieving in the position and has been responsible for general maintenance of the grounds and buildings on both the primary and secondary campus for the

past 18 months. Thank you to Cassy Constable who assisted on the selection panel. Excursions Year 6 students head off to visit the University of Newcastle tomorrow as part of the MEGS

program. Next week secondary Hospitality

students visit restaurants and hotels in Newcastle as part of an industry study. In Week 7 secondary students have the opportunity to visit the highlights of Sydney,

and attend the VET World Skills Competition at Homebush. Organisation for 2013 As the year rolls on preparations have begun for the 2013 school year. The school readiness

program has commenced for preschool students heading off to big school next year. Parents will be contacted midway through the term about Kinder Orientation. Year 7 enrolments have been confirmed, and in Week 4 Year 10 students will choose their subjects for senior school. An information evening for students and parents will take place on Tuesday 7 August.

Darren Noonan

Principal

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MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL PRIMARY NEWS

WELCOME BACK! We hope everyone had a relaxing and fun holiday period and welcome everyone to Term 3. This term already has many exciting events on the school calendar. Kindergarten and Year 1 will continue to participate in the speech program for the first few weeks of term. Teachers are looking forward to meeting parents during Parent Teacher Interviews and classes are excitedly preparing for Variety Night. Students will be participating in a sporting program called the Backyard League Program each Friday from week 2 to 5. Students are preparing for their ‗Jump Day‘ and have so far raised $210 for the Heart Foundation through the Jump Rope For Heart program. If you would like to volunteer to help run an activity on Jump Day please contact the office on the Primary Campus.

The Little Sprouts committee has been very busy organising and look forward to the big day!

This term teachers and executives will be participating in a variety of professional learning including Accelerated Literacy training, attending the Early Years conference, and numeracy development in patterns & algebra. Our first day of term was spent in CPR and anaphylaxis training. This training covers a variety of emergencies and is important in maintaining the skills needed for teachers and staff to administer the best medical treatment in an emergency. Assemblies this term will trial a change and occur in the morning on alternative Fridays. Assembly will be due to start at 9.15am with the first assembly to occur on the 27 July. We look forward to seeing the Fife Band play at the first assembly of term.

Rebecca West

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MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL SECONDARY NEWS

YEAR 11 VET WORK PLACEMENT During Week 9 Year 11 students studying a Vocational education subject at school attended their mandatory 35 hours of work placement for their courses. We would like to thank the following employers for their support in assisting our Year 11 students. Angela Burge - Caroline‘s Cafe -

Hospitality Marissa Watson - The Larda - Hospitality Brodi Hollier - Royal Hotel - Hospitality Margo Boland - Merriwa Cakes &

Pasteries - Hospitality Blake Ellis - Denman Engineering - Metal

& Engineering Jon Hood - Welderup - M e t a l &

Engineering William Taylor - Jeff Towler Building -

Carpentary Tom Hagley - Neil Hunt Custom Made

Kitchens - Carpentary Eli Kiely - Resour ce Cen tre -

Information Technology Brady Hilton - Brindley Park - Primary

Industries Tyler Austin - Shannon Partnership -

Primary Industries

Zoi Russell - Upper Hunter Shire Council - Business Services

Amy Nicholls - Community Mutual - Business Services

Ashley Gibbons - Cross Country Ford - Business Services

Reece Hancock - Merriwa Bits & Pizza -Hospitality.

We still have a number of students who have to complete their work placement in Yerm 3. If you think your business is able to help out we would love to hear from you as we have more and more students choosing vocational education courses. Once again thank you to those businesses who supported our students it was very much appreciated.

Jane Hegarty VET Coordinator

CAREER NEWS 2012 World Skills Australia National Competition, Sydney - On the 31 August and 1 September Merriwa Central School will be taking a bus to the World Skills competition with an overnight stay. This competition displays 500 of Australia's best students, trainees and apprentices competing for gold in over 50 categories. The skill areas on show range from traditional trades such as plumbing, bricklaying and hairdressing to the more contemporary professions of web design and fashion technology. This is to replace the MEGS trip to Hunter TAFE and the Defence Force in Newcastle. Years 7 & 8 will have to be accompanied by an adult and they will be offered first preference. If there are seats available on the bus Yeas 9 & 10 will be offered the opportunity to attend. For more information visit www.worldskills.org.au Year 12 news Tocal Agricultural College Open Days are being held on 28 September and the 5 October 2012 from 10am at Tocal Agricultural College, Paterson. Contact Bill Kinsey on liam.kinsey@dpi.nsw.gov.au for more information

Apprenticeships for 2013

Centennial Coal 2013 apprenticeships are now open for application. To apply go to

www.huntervtec.com.au. and follow the prompts. There are also Indigenous Warehousing Traineeships available on www.huntervtec.com.au and follow the employment opportunities link. Specific enquiries may be directed to Nicole Vale on

(02) 4932 4184

Ausgrid – go to www.ausgrid.com.au/apprenticeships and select the apprenticeship that suits you. You will need to register for a pre apprenticeship test and those short listed will be interviewed. For more information visit on facebook.com/ausgridapprenticeships

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MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL

ROAR Athlete Profile

Transgrid is offering electrical apprenticeships with a starting salary of approximately $37,390 plus 14% employer superannuation. All work is primarily based outdoors (in remote locations). Applications will commence in the first half of 2013. http://www.transgrid.com.au/careers/at/Pages/default.aspx

Years 10, 11 & 12

Year 10 Students Information. 'Which Way to

Go' is a senior subject choice guide to help you

with subject selection. It can be downloaded f rom http://eaglesconsu l ting.com.au/products.html If you have any career questions please contact me at Merriwa Central School.

Jane Hegarty Careers Advisor

Name: Isaac Austin Year Group: 9 Favourite Subject: ROAR Favourite sport: Rugby League Favourite team: Roosters Favourite player: Mitchell Pearce Best personal sporting achievement: Represen ta t ive Football Who inspires you: Dad

Advice to young players: Do your best Why is ROAR valuable?: It teaches you to respect everyone Captains Comments: Isaac is an enthusiastic player and high achiever in ROAR. He is always willing to have a go at everything.

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CASSILIS PUBLIC SCHOOL

Welcome to Term 3!

I hope that everyone enjoyed a great holiday that hopefully didn‘t go by too quickly. These 10 weeks will certainly be action packed with activities including the continuation of the Language Development Program, Mrs Leman beginning the Learning and Support Teacher role each Monday to further assist our students with disabilities, Miss Hodgson teaching K-2 each Monday, Zone and Regional Athletics, 3-6 excursion to Canberra, K-2 excursion to Singleton, ‗Google‘ being led at the Hoof and Hook competition, our Performing Arts Night, the introduction of the 10 Ipod touches into daily learning activities (kindly donated by the P&C), the Olympics begin and Cassilis will have its own mini-Olympics Day! Drama Workshop Our Country Areas Program (CAP) funding allowed us to employ talented drama teacher, Cameron Elkin. Last year Cameron came for two days and taught the students a performance titled ‗Seusical the Musical‘ which was extremely fun and very catchy. Students performed this at the presentation

night at the conclusion of 2011. This year, Cameron came to Cassilis earlier in the year to teach a new performance piece which was an adaptation of the Ugly Duckling story. All students enjoyed the last two days of last term learning the dance, learning their lines and playing a variety of drama games to improve public speaking skills, performance skills and just have fantastic time!

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A snapshot of this performance was shown at the end of term 2 assembly using the new school video camera. Everyone is excitingly awaiting the Performing Arts Concert later this term to see the final show. Parents were also treated to a Cassilis documentary filmed by the students. They certainly put a lot of personality into the video and it was great to discover more about our awesome children. Many thanks to Cameron for sharing his talents with the students and also the staff. We all learnt so much and had a great time!

Staff Development Day

The Cassilis teachers are travelling to Muswellbrook on Monday, 17 July to join with the Invermein Small Schools Group. This group is made up of staff members from Murrurundi, Ellerston, Blandford, Rouchel, Martindale, Belltrees, Sandy Hollow and Cassilis. The focus

of this day will include learning more about the computer modules in Sentral, NAPLAN writing criteria and benchmarking work samples and a sharing session in the afternoon to swap ideas

CASSILIS PUBLIC SCHOOL

and resources. Here are some writing samples for years 3-6 during their Sentence A Day lesson. Mum carried the tray so the cookies didn‘t

spill on the floor. – Corey The car broke down so I rang dad to

come help my fix it. – Steph I wish I could have three wishes so I

could help people. – Tarnisha Did you sell the 4 bulls and steers to the

Mudgee Sale Yards? – Brady I ran to my best friend‘s house so I could

play with her. – Bonny The sun went down so they decided to

make camp and set off in the morning. – Taine

My family will go swimming if the weather

holds up. – Sarah The pizza delivery was wrong so we had

to take it back to get the right one. – Summer

The yellow chair had broken legs so we

bought another one. – Thomas Enjoy your week.

Katie Bell Principal

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 9

ST JOSEPH‘S PRIMARY SCHOOL

Term Two saw 5/6 accomplish many great things. We completed our Newcastle Herald publication that will be published in the Newcastle Herald on 7 August, so we are all looking forward to seeing that in all its glory. We also teamed up with St Joseph‘s Denman to win the Science Discovery Day we attended. We attended Middle Schools Day and got a feel for what High School may have to offer. Most of our class represented the school at Gulgong Horse Sports with great success, and sent a team that performed extremely well to the Upper Hunter Catholic Schools Debating Competition. You can read the reports compiled by Cameron and Paige a little bit further down in this article. Festival of the Fleeces was also a highlight of the term with the school heavily represented

by students and staff at this excellent community event. Most of us also attended the very successful St Joseph‘s Campdraft Fun Day. This day was totally awesome and a big thank you from

the students of 5/6 to Mrs Ninness and her extremely dedicated committee for making this day the success that it was. Everybody who attended seemed to be really enjoying themselves.

This term promises to be yet another very busy one for 5/6 with Mr Morris continuing to plan lots of learning activities. In English we will be focusing on the text types of Recount, Narrative and Literary

Description. We are also looking forward to improving our public speaking skills as we prepare short speeches as part of our homework activities. In Maths we will continue to work on perfecting our multiplication tables, as well as work on Number, Measurement, and Space and Geometry activities using our Go Maths books, concrete materials and ICT.

State and Federal Government will be the topic studied in HSIE this term, we will look at what our politicians are responsible for and the roles for which each level of government is responsible. In PDHPE our two topics are Safe to Travel and Netball. While in 5/6 we are already aware of what safe travel is, it‘s really good to reinforce these values. We are hoping Mr Morris will join us in the gameplay for netball as there are seven players on each team and we only have thirteen students in our class. In Creative Arts, Celebrations and Special Occasions will be studied. There is a special event coming up in two weeks that is quite special for Mr Morris and we are sure he will incorporate this event into our Art program including our own artistic impressions of the Olympics opening ceremony. Finally in Religion we will be studying the

Universal Church, The Story of God‘s People and Sharing in the Mission of Jesus. So we have yet another busy term planned and are looking forward to learning a lot more this term.

St Joseph‘s Junior Campdraft Merriwa St Joseph‘s Primary School Merriwa ran their inaugural Junior Campdraft, Sporting and Fun Day on Saturday 30 June 2012. More than 100 riders took part in junior campdraft, cutout and

sporting events. The highlight of the day was the family cutout and family draft which gave parents and children the opportunity to compete together. The day was well supported with families travelling from as far as Walcha, Wingham, Sydney, Dubbo and everywhere in

between. There was also fete like activities on the day with many non competitors and even competitors, taking part in hobby horse races, face painting, craft and treasure hunt activities. A raffle, hundred club, silent stallion auction, coffee, canteen and market stalls kept the adults busy.

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 10

ST JOSEPH‘S PRIMARY SCHOOL

The day was extremely successful with plenty of competitors encouraging us to run again next year. A big thank you to our sixty fantastic sponsors for without their generosity the day would not have been possible. Special thanks to Throwley Station for the donation of the cattle, who ran exceptionally well; Martins Stock Haulage for the donation of the cartage; Arthur Martin for driving the cattle truck and Brendan

Holland for loading and unloading the cattle at

the property all day; Jake McIntyre from Glen Innes and Tim Henderson for announcing all day. The support from the many helpers on the day was overwhelming and the children of St Josephs Primary School thank you all.

Cameron Ninness

Year 6 student Thomas Nairne at the Campdraft Fun Day Gulgong Horse Sports On Monday 24 June a team of eighteen St Joseph‘s students travelled to Gulgong for the Gulgong Combined School Horse Sports. The team was accompanied by Miss Carraro. The students competed in three riding classes including a rider, hack and pair of riders. Onlookers got to watch the dirt fly as the sports got under way. Most of the team battled through hunger pains as there was no lunch break but got on with the job under an extremely slippery ground with most

competitors holding back as they weren‘t going to risk injury to themselves or their horse.

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 11

The presentation at the end of the day

provided us with a big surprise with the announcement that we had won the highest school point score. Emily Ninness and Clancy Martin got reserve or champion point score in their age groups, while Britnee Attenborough got a Sportsmanship Award.

Everyone received a little bag of feed so all the horses should be well fed. We would like to say a big thank you to all the wonderful parents for taking their children, and to everyone who organised the Gulgong Combined School Horse Sports. Upper Hunter Debating On Tuesday 23 June, Cameron Ninness, Hannah Riley, Britnee Attenborough and Paige Caldecoat, accompanied by Mr Morris travelled to St James Muswellbrook to compete against other Catholic schools in the region in debating. We were given an hour to prepare a two and a half minute speech for each speaker with the topic being ―winning is everything‖ and we were the negative team. After a great deal of waiting, it was our turn to grace the stage. We were amazed by all the great speeches already made by the other schools. By the time we had to get up we were worried as we and St Catherine‘s College, Singleton, got up to take our places. As the first speaker on the opposing team spoke we were worried that we were a little bit out of our league. It was up to Cameron to get us off to a good start he made his two and a half minute speech not relying on any notes right there on the spot.

After the opposing team had their say it was then time for Britnee to impress the crowd with her speech. The opposing team made a false rebuttal that Hannah had to make right and she spoke for the full whole two and a half minutes.

By the end of the day we weren‘t the winners

but we thought we had performed to the best of our ability and gained a great deal from the day.

Cameron Ninness and Paige Caldecoat ( Public Relations Officers )

Congratulations to the following award winners: Kinder Bobby Keegan- For being a great friend to

others. Alyssa Carrall- For being a great friend to

others. 1/2 Jock Grady – For his great work in English

activities. Hudson Attenborough – For the fantastic

way he treats all members of the class. Madelaine Thrift – For her great work in

Literacy activities. 3/4 Sophie Inder – For being really speedy

with her times tables. Kyarne Sampson – A great improvement

in her times tables. 5/6 Oliver Towell – For a fantastic attitude

towards school life. Tamasyn McNaught – For another

fantastic term. Playground Champion: Kasey Cassar – For being friendly to

others in the playground. Principal‘s Awards:

April Stanley – For trying so hard to be a helpful student.

Toby Smith - For a wonderful contribution to our school community.

Helen Whale

Principal

ST JOSEPH‘S PRIMARY SCHOOL

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MERRIWA PRE-SCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN ASSOCIATION

PANCAKORAMA Recently, on Tuesday and Thursday, we made pancakes to follow on from the previous week when all the children were making pancakes with the play dough. This was a great opportunity to elaborate on the children‘s interests. The children loved helping make the pancake mixture by adding different ingredients, mixing the ingredients together, watching the pancakes being cooked and the favourite part of pancake making was when the children were able to eat them. Some children had butter, some children had maple syrup and some children did not even want a pancake. The children that wanted the pancakes ate them in no time and were asking for more. Each child got three pancakes each but that did not seem to be enough.

Isn‘t it great to see the children helping with food preparation? They washed their hands before beginning this task and were more than happy to be doing a ‗grown up job‘.

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REMINDERREMINDER

The deadline for articles and advertisements for the

Merriwa Ringer is

12noon

Monday

MERRIWA PRE-SCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN ASSOCIATION

Ingredients 135g plain flour 2 tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt

2 tbsp caster sugar 130ml milk 1 large egg, lightly beaten 2 tbsp melted butter (allowed to cool

slightly) or olive oil, plus extra for cook-ing

Preparation method Sift the flour, baking powder, salt and caster sugar into a large bowl. In a separate bowl or jug, lightly whisk together the milk and egg, then whisk in the melted butter. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and, using a fork, beat until you have a smooth batter. Any lumps will soon disappear with a little mixing. Heat a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat and add a knob of butter. When it has melted, add a ladle of batter (or two if your frying pan is big enough to cook two pan-cakes at the same time). It will seem very thick but this is how it should be. Wait until the top of the pancake begins to bubble, then turn it over and cook until both sides are golden brown and the pancake has risen to about 1cm (½in) thick. Repeat until all the batter is used up. You can keep the pancakes warm in a low oven, but they taste best fresh out of the pan.

Serve with lashings of real maple syrup and ex-tra butter if you like. If it were up to the children, we would be cooking pancakes everyday. Remember we can have plain pancakes at Pre-school.

By Jessyca Morgan

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MERRIWA ACTIVITY CENTRE After School and Vacation Care

Catering for 5 – 12 year olds

Wow, what an enjoyable time was had by the children and staff these holidays. The unfortunate part was the terrible weather at times and also low numbers!!! Children where were you, you missed out on so many cool things. Meanwhile, on a fantastic note the children raised $286.60 at a street stall, such an amazing effort, Thank you to the community members who supported us and also congratulations to our 100 club winners!! Here are some photos from the two week period we chose to share with you. Next week at MAC: Our weeks topic will be

―How can we include the children at Mac further, to make it the ―children‘s space and environment‖?

―I can‘t wait to hear some of these ideas! Monday: outdoor play & craft : fruit,

cabanossi & crackers Tuesday: Outdoors play or Zumba!! : fruit

& frankfurts Wednesday: recycled craft, theme is

Robots: fruit skewers & quiche Thursday: Zumba or outdoor games :

fruit faces & mini sandwiches Friday: castle battles or dolls house

drama!: veg & fruit platter & muffins Activity centre CRN (after school care) is 555 014 702K Vacation care CRN 555 014 708J. Contact Centrelink to find out about your child care benefit (CCB) or contact MAC for more info.

Lucy Naef, Ciara and kids!!

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DISCLAIMER

Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher, Merriwa Central School. No

responsibility is accepted by the Publisher or its Committee for the accuracy of information contained in articles. The

advertising of and use of product names does not constitute recommendations or endorsement by the

Publisher or its Committee. Advertisers indemnify the Publisher and its Committee against all liability claims or

proceedings whatsoever arising from the publication.

BIG BOYS TOYS BACK FOR A 4TH YEAR

The Aberdeen Information Centre will hold its 4th Annual Big Boys Toys event on Saturday the 1 September 2012 at Jefferson Park, Aberdeen. There will be displays of cars, both old and new, motorcycles, trucks and just about anything that boys big and small love. Also on the day browse the market stalls and enjoy the rides and entertainment. Organiser of the event Nic Ervine said ―We are very excited to be able to offer for the 1st time helicopter joy flights. One lucky person will win a free flight in the raffle that

has been donated by Hunter Wine Helicopters, maybe a great fathers day gift for the Dad who has everything.‖ The event will also be hosting the 2nd Annual Shannon‘s Show and Shine, car competition

sponsored by Shannon‘s Insurance. The Viewers‘ Choice Motorcycle competition will be sponsored by Reliance Motorsports. Start time is 10am and will run until 2pm; entry is $2.00 per person with children under

5 free. So bring Dad along for a great day out just in time for Father‘s Day.

Mayor Lee Watts

RECIPE OF THE WEEK LAMB SHANKS WITH PARMESAN POLENTA Ingredients 2 tbs plain flour 8 small lamb shanks, French trimmed 2 tbs olive oil 2 leeks, pale section only, washed, dried,

thinly sliced 4 carrots, peeled, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, crushed 500ml (2 cups) dry white wine 250ml (1 cup) chicken stock 1 x 800g can diced Italian tomatoes 4 sprigs fresh thyme Fresh thyme, extra, to serve

Parmesan polenta 1.25L (5 cups) chicken stock 170g (1 cup) polenta (cornmeal) 20g butter 40g (1/2 cup) finely grated parmesan

Method Place flour in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Coat the lamb shanks with flour mixture and shake off excess. Heat oil in a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Add 2 lamb shanks and cook, turning occasionally, for 5-6 minutes or until brown. Transfer to a heatproof bowl. Repeat with remaining lamb shanks.

Reduce heat to medium. Add the leek, carrot and garlic to the pan and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until soft. Increase heat to high. Add the wine and bring to the boil. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the stock, tomato and thyme and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low. Return lamb shanks to the pan and cook, covered, for 2 hours or until lamb is tender and falls off the bone. Transfer lamb shanks to a heatproof bowl. Cover with foil to keep warm.

Increase heat to high and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes or until vegetable mixture thickens and the sauce has reduced by half.

Meanwhile, to make the parmesan polenta, place the stock in a medium saucepan. Bring to the boil over medium heat. Gradually add the polenta in a thin steady stream, stirring constantly until incorporated. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 15-20 minutes or until the mixture thickens and polenta is soft. Remove from heat. Add the butter and parmesan and stir until well

combined. Taste and season with salt and

pepper. Divide the parmesan polenta among serving bowls. Top with lamb shanks and pour over the vegetable mixture. Top with extra thyme and serve.

www.taste.com

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 16

ROAD TRIPPIN’ WITH KIRK & CO Over the next few issues of ―The Ringer‖, I will be sending through some extracts of the

highlights and also the inevitable lowlights of our road trip to the bottom of Cape York Peninsula. We headed out from Merriwa early Saturday morning on 30 June (-3o), packed to the

rafter with more cables in the cab of our ute, than an ER operating room. We had a solar panel charging a large battery, to which we had 12v sockets for charging ipods, radios, cameras, phones, laptops, lights and torches.

We spent quite a bit of time just travelling cotton fields and then savannah plains, where the only thing that broke the monotony was the height and colour of the termite mounds, the odd camel or emu. Our first stop was the spectacular Carnarvon Gorge National Park

where we managed a 17km walk in under 5 hours and crossed twelve creek crossings in all. This area is of significance to the Darumbal aboriginals and an intensely spiritual place with an impressive ancient Aboriginal art gallery.

The next few days were more of the same e x c e p t a t B e y l a n d o Crossing we met the drivers of the v8

supercar road trains who were heading towards Townsville. We called into Innot Hot Springs, and some things just have to be taken at face value, and this was one of them. Not realizing just how hot these springs were (they get up to 76‘C) I jumped straight in, scalding two layers of skin. I then scrubbed off another four layers when I realized the pub‘s sewerage ran straight into the hot springs. We pulled into Cairns two days earlier than expected and set up camp at the Coconut

Resort. This gave the kids a couple of days to recuperate before the next leg of our trip towards Old Laura Station. The landscape heading out towards the Lakefield National Park was steep-sided

sandstone ridges, that featured aboriginal artworks by the Quinkan‘s. Split Rock Art Site was fairly impressive. We were intending to camp beside the Kennedy Creek, but the sand was impassable and we spent awhile winching out my brothers camping trailer. Well, I documented, the kids explored the creek rock pools and everyone gave expert and colourful opinions on the best way to winch the vehicle out.

Hopefully, by next week‘s Ringer, we will have seen some of Queensland‘s ―sunny‖ weather and have some news to report.

Suzie Kirk & Co

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 17

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ANGLICAN NEWS Reflection: We offer this Confirmation Prayer Lord God, You have called us your servants, to

ventures of which we cannot see the ending, By paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, Not knowing where we go, but only that your

hand is leading us and your love supporting us: through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Confirmation:. our candidates are- Alexandra Cottle, Hunter Hood, Melanie Inder, Paige McConnell & Jodie Mulholland. They will be

confirmed by Bishop Peter Stuart on Sunday 22 July at 10am Holy Trinity Merriwa. Followed by morning tea. ―Every Heart sings a Song‖

Calendar of Events. 27 July: Messy Church 28 July: Men‘s Breakfast Church Services Friday 20 July:10am Eucharist Holy Trinity with discussion & sharing. Hospital: 11am Extended Eucharist.

Date for your Diary - 2 August: 2pm in the Parish Hall to hear an Outline of Narelle Davis trip to Papua New Guinea. Come along and here all about this working adventure.

100 years celebration St. Luke‘s Widden 8 September 11am. Bring & Share lunch Ph. Jeannie Harris 6547 0520

VETERINARY NEWS WITH ANTHEA Winner of our ―What‘s in the Jar‖ was won by Jessica Simshauser so she has won herself a

$20 gift voucher in the surgery. Congratulations of successfully guessing a cat‘s tooth. Well done to the other entries that also had the correct answer but just not successful in being drawn out of the hat.

Wet! Wet! Wet! And boy hasn‘t it been with the creeks flooding, dropping more rain & flooding again. With all this wet & cold weather around ensure that all livestock & pets have sufficient food so it can help maintain condition in the cold.

Congratulations goes out to the Merriwa Campdraft and Bushman‘s Carnival committee for holding a very successful 2/12 day Campdraft & ring 2 (sporting & riding classes) for all young kids and even the young kids at heart even though they are the more experienced ones!!!!!!

Also the following weekend was the St Joesphs Merriwa Campdraft and Fun Sporting Day and boy that is exactly was it was. The family involvement in the cut out & campdraft did show that even though some of the riders where not even teenagers they certainly showed Mum or Dad how things are done in the arena!!!!! But there was that much laughter and cheers over at the canteen it certainly was the place to be also with tug a war, stick horse races & the food, boy what ever you wanted.

It shows that Merriwa, for a little country town, can certainly hold some real fundraisers for their committee. Keep up the good work. So you had better mark the calendar with the annual Merriwa Springtime Show which is happening in September so you can all get your pets ready for the ‗Pet Show‘ and/or all the riding events for young & experienced.

We will endeavor to continue our weekly write ups, we just get busy that we sometimes forget another week has passed us by. Until then girls keep up the good work.

Anthea Wright, Julie, Megan & our

offsiders

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 19

ROTARY CLUB OF MERRIWA

The change over dinner on Tuesday evening was very well attended by Rotary members and

quests. A special thanks to District Governor Janette Jackson and husband Steve for their attendance and a very big thank you also to the many locals who came along to give support to Rotary and on this occasion to welcome in our new club president Frank Armstrong and his

committee for 2012/13. P a s t p r e s i den t R o b

G o o d e a r we l comes in new p r e s i den t F r a n k Armstrong

It was a hail and f a r e w e l l e v e n i n g ; welcoming h o m e young Jay-me Taylor and Isaac Austin from

their stay in New Zealand and also a welcome for two new kiwi visitors, Liam Murupaenga and Kane Davies, also sadly the time had come to farewell Hannah Kruecken who has now returned home to Germany.

New Rotary members and their partners being warmly welcomed by District Governor Janette Jackson. Mark Morris, Mark and Di Inder, Mark and Helen Whale.

Fundraising with the intention of giving back to the community is very much a part of the Rotary ethos. The committee for 2011/12 has worked hard and is pleased once again to contribute to the various organisations in our community. Merriwa Rotary community disbursements for 2011/12: Merriwa Rescue Squad - $600.00 Gummun Place - $400.00 Westpac Helicopter - $600.00 Cassilis Public School - $250.00 St Joseph‘s Primary - $250.00 Merriwa Primary - $250.00 Merriwa Secondary - $250.00 Merriwa Pre-school - $250.00 300 Club completion winners; 1st - Pam Kemp

2nd - Neil Hunt 3rd - Sparrow family grandchildren Colour T.V. winner - Sparrow family If you would like to find out more about Rotary, our regular dinner meetings are at the Sports Club Tuesday nights 7pm for 7.30pm dinner. Membership is open to both men and women.

Michael Wheatley

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 20

LODGE YOUR ANNUAL LAND AND STOCK RETURN ONLINE

Over 147,000 Annual Land and Stock Returns are being mailed to landholders and others across NSW this week, and the Livestock Health and Pest Authorities are encouraging recipients to lodge their 2012 return online. Central North LHPA General Manager, Daryl

Paull said the online lodgement option is a faster and more streamlined process. ―It asks the same questions as the paper-based form and only takes a few minutes to complete. Also, lodging online reduces paper waste which

is a plus for the environment,‖ Mr Paull said. ―Changes to your details, such as holding and occupier details, can be made online, and other changes can be requested and fulfilled faster than with the paper-based form.‖

Mr Paull said all LHPA ratepayers and individuals with a current brand, earmark or property identification code (PIC) are posted a paper-based form which shows their Holding Reference Number and Online Password needed

to login to lodge online. ―All you need is a computer and access to the internet to lodge online. If you are experiencing difficulty you can click on the ‗Live Help‘ button and receive immediate online assistance from an LHPA officer,‖ he said. ―The live chat feature will be available during business hours (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm). Outside of business hours, you will be prompted for an email address and contacted the following business day.‖

Mr Paull said it‘s important all recipients

complete their Annual Land and Stock Return, as it provides valuable information to the LHPA. ―The information you give us in the return helps build a state-wide biosecurity picture about agricultural usage and livestock

numbers, which combined with the stock identification and traceability systems we manage, is invaluable in the event of an emergency disease outbreak,‖ he said. ―Locally, the information is used by the

authority to ensure we strike the right balance with our livestock health programs.‖ All recipients of a 2012 Annual Land and Stock Return are required to submit a completed return, even if they do not have stock. Failure to lodge a return, or late lodgement, will mean LHPA ratepayers are automatically charged an animal health rate and meat industry levy in 2013 rates. The due date for submission of 2012 returns is 31 August. To lodge your 2012 return online, go to www.lhpa.org.au/landandstock . More information about lodging online, including frequently asked questions, can be found at this address. You can also contact your local LHPA office in Tamworth, Coonabarabran, Merriwa or Mudgee for information or assistance.

Daryl Paull 6762 2900

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 21

ST JOSEPH'S JUNIOR CAMPDRAFT & FUN DAY 2012 RAFFLE WINNERS

1st - Rhys Claxton Merriwa -2 piece

Giovannotti Luggage Set 2nd - John Bennett Gulgong - National

Maritime Museum Family Pass 3rd - Attenborough Family Merriwa - National

Maritime Museum Family Pass 4th - Bernadette Coffey Newcastle - Taronga

Western Plains Dubbo Family Pass 5th - Parker Family Merriwa - Driving Lights &

Car Pack - Merriwa Auto Electrical 6th - Marilyn Waters Merriwa - Taronga

Western Plains or Taronga Zoo - 2 Adult Pass 7th Leanne Hunt Merriwa - Australian

Reptile Park Family Pass 8th - Ben Grady Gloucester - S h e l l

Sandpit & Sand - William's Concrete 9th - Dermott Shannon Merriwa - S i m p l e

Pleasures Voucher Lindeman's Estate 10th - Roger Moore Merriwa - S i m p l e

Pleasures Voucher Lindeman's Estate 11th - Mikayla Telfer Merriwa - $50- Worth

of Garden Mulch - William's Concrete 12th - Nancy Coulton Merriwa- $50- RM

William's Gift Card 13th - Sam Watson Merriwa - Pukkara Gift

Pack 14th - Felicity Sharpe Camden - Hunter Mutual

Back Pack Umbrella & Goodies 15th - Ray McConnell Merriwa - T o y s &

Tub - SJM P&F Association 100 Club Winners 1st Brazier Family Merriwa 2nd Brazier Family Merriwa 3rd Cameron Ninness Merriwa Thankyou to everyone who supported our raffle and 100 club.

Tanya Ninness & Megan Moore

MERRIWA RAILWAY SOCIETY INC. At last Saturday's working bee we had a visit from John Kennedy. John was one of a number

of visitors from Scone for the 100 year turning of the sod celebration. He spoke with us on the day and is very impressed with what has been achieved in 20 months. John spent his working life employed by State

Rail and as such is a wealth of knowledge. As important was the fact that he was given the job of "cleaning out the station building" at Merriwa when the line closed in 1988. Rather than take it to the tip as instructed he retained a lot of the records. He brought some of these

on Saturday, such as, Work Record Book listing the procedures for the various jobs. Phillip Houlahan and Gary Galimore get regular mentions. Irreplacable items of history. In addition John loaned us almost a complete

uniform. We now need a manequin so it can be displayed. Does anyone have a display unit with a glass top to display the large quantity of paper records? Please contact me. Also needing information about the Ticket Room Counter. If you remember the location and size dimensions we need your help. Next working bee is 28 July or call me at home. When we have the information it will be rebuilt. We have signs to place in the past positions of the Barracks, Engine Shed, Coal Dump (or Stage), Water Tank and Fettlers' Shed. Help is needed to identify the locations. Again come to the working bee so we can put them in place. Signs for the Gentlemen and Lamp Room are in their spots. Don't leave it to others if you can help. There must be info out there from the many residents who travelled on the train. More will be happening over the next 4 weeks. I'll keep you posted.

Bryan Baker 65485000

bryan@ipstarmail.com.au

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 22

MERRIWA CAMPDRAFT In a bold move to escape the heat in November this year Merriwa Bushman‘s Campdraft and

Rodeo Assn held its annual Campdraft on Friday 22, Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 June 2012. This proved to be a successful move and despite the weather being a bit chilly the weekend ran smoothly with 860 runs this year at the Coal & Allied sponsored event.

The Campdraft got under way at 5.30pm on Friday evening with the Merriwa RSL Club Encouragement Draft, judged by Dan Lee-Warner. Following a run off for first place, Clint Parker riding Bank was the winner, with Jessica

Bates and Roy settling for second. Third place went to Wayne Saddler with Jan, and 4/5 divided between local committee man Roger Moore with Versace and Christine Rasmussen with Rex. Along with his prize money Clint received a nosebag feeder kindly donated by

Kerrie Murray Saddler. Saturday morning got under way at 7.00am with the first round of the Davis & Sons Cattle Co Maiden Draft, being judged by Jayson Nairne. Twenty one competitors went into the final on Saturday afternoon, with the eventual winner being Matt Weber riding Harry. Second place went to Rodney Crump with Rio, while 3/4 was divided between local competitor Maurice Bogie with Bonny Lass & Troy Palmer‘s Lisa. A

gift voucher donated by RM Williams was the trophy for this event. Rodney Crump did a wonderful job judging the junior events with The M & H Grady Juvenile Draft for 13 – 17 years next on the programme. Wyatt Young and Acres Liberty Beau were the winners on 88 pts while second place went to Justin Gillis & Sundance on 87. Third & fourth was divided between Brodie Preston on Dulcevena & Phillip Main with Mains Laghlan on 85 pts. Max‘s Country Cuts sponsored the Junior Campdraft for riders 8-13 yrs, with Grace Hadley riding Bessie, taking the first place. Grace received the Throwley Station trophy as the winner. Local competitor Matthew Porter on Drover‘s Run placed second with Kate Schiffman third.

The Junior Cut-out sponsored by Fernandes Construction for riders 8 – 13 yrs was a hard fought battle for first place with 2 run offs between Sarah Nairne on Alice and Jorjia Edwards on Acres Liberty Beau. After three consecutive scores of 22 Sarah Nairne was the eventual winner while Jorjia had two scores of 22 and a further 21 to take second. Sarah received the Throwley Station trophy as the winner. Tamika Edwards was third on

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 23

Moonlight and local girl Emily Ninness divided 4/5 with her two horses Gift & Sheeza Little Jazzy.

The First Round of the Frampton Freight Open Draft sported a quality field of competitors and was the last event on Saturday afternoon. This event was judged by Dean Taylor with the top

scorers going forward to the Final on Sunday afternoon.

Sunday morning got under way again at 7.00am with the PT Pest Control Ladies Draft. With Murray Grady on the whip, Christine Jones and Clancy collected the prizemoney, also taking home a belt buckle donated by Di‘s Clothing Patch. Second & third placings in the Ladies event was divided between Ros Ireland‘s Expression & Vicki Evans on Baroness.

Next on the program was the Russell‘s Earthmoving Novice Draft, judged by Fred Miles. Following a first round and a final, Troy Palmer riding Mistake finished on top with 178 pts. Second & third place was divided between Jamie Carruthers on Banjo & local committee man Murray Grady on Tulips with 176 pts.

The final of the Frampton Freight Open Draft was the last event for the weekend. After a tough final the winner was Singleton competitor Richard Barnett and Holly scoring a total of 170, with second place going to Adrienne Miller on Kahlua. Third place went to John Duggan riding Frazer. The Ray Ninness Memorial Trophy for The Highest Scoring Local Rider was won this year by Murray Grady with a score of 88 in the first round of the Novice Draft. Merriwa Pony Club ran a highly successful ring two program with riding, led and sporting events. Local rider Cameron Ninness was Champion Junior Rider with another local, Nicole Martin, sashed Reserve Champion. Senior Champion Rider was Wyatt Young and Taylor Miller, Scone, won champion hack. Tasia Martin with The Echo Carina won champion led stock horse. For many years the Committee of Merriwa Campdraft has donated funds to our local

schools, Westpac Rescue Helicopter and many other local organisations. This has been made possible by the hard work of our Committee and the generosity of our sponsors. We would like to thank our Sponsors for 2012: Coal & Alied, Frampton Freight, Davis & Sons Cattle Co., PT Pest Control, Russell‘s Earthmoving ,Michael Nutt Contracting, M &H Grady, Max‘s Country Cuts, FernandesConstruction, Merriwa Traders, Caroon Past Co, Merriwa Sports Club, Merriwa RSL, Di‘s Clothing Patch, Kerry Murray Saddler, MacCullum Inglis, Cross Country Merriwa, Mitavite, Merriwa Pharmacy, Dianne Mitchell, Merriwa Post Office, Pitt Sons Merriwa ,Merriwa Petroleum & Ag, Anthea Wright Vet Services, RM Williams, Throwley Station ,Brindley Park Lucerne ,Merriwa Upholstery & Saddlery Supplies, Merriwa Hardware, McConnell‘s This n That, Max Bailey First National, Muswellbrook Steel Supplies, Marsh Carney Saddleworld.

A huge thank you to our Cattle donors; Coolie Angus, Jim Edwards, Hampshire Station, Gordon Martin, Hamish Munro and Hugh Kraeft, without you it would be impossible to run our event.

A big thank you must go to Michael Nutt Contracting and Russell‘s Earthmoving for their help at our working bee, which made the yards and camp a lot better in the wet conditions.

Special thanks to Ribbons for cooking the beautiful camp oven and Spit Roast meal for Saturday night. Everyone that was lucky enough to share it thought that it was outstanding.

Bill McNaught once again took on the task of running the Bar for the weekend with the help of Mark Constable and did an excellent job of keeping both competitors and spectators hydrated. Rotary did a fabulous job at the Steak Hut with the Bacon and Egg rolls and Steak sandwiches especially popular in the wintery conditions.

Merriwa Campdraft President, David Cameron, would like to thank his hard working committee for their tireless efforts in the days leading up to and throughout the weekend, which ensured that our Draft was once again successful.

Shirley Hunt Secretary

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 24

MUSINGS WITH MAX In my last article in these columns I described what I termed two medium sized Australian

attempts to defy the Laws of Supply and Demand. The first was the refusal of the Wheat Board in the 1960s to meet falling wheat prices as world wheat production rose after the end of World War Two, the result being a disaster from which the wheat

industry took years to recover. The second was the Wool Board‘s attempts in the 1970s to fix wool prices using, as a minimum of what they would accept, those prevailing at the peak of a minor wool boom. Again the result was devastation of the wool industry

when many millions of bales in storage had risen to an unsustainable level, the over joyed synthetics industry was hoping the Wool Board‘s policy would last for ever, the Federal Government eventually pulled the financial pin, and a similarly devastated wool industry,

saddled with its enormous stock pile, also took many years to recover. However the most massive, the most all encompassing of all Australian attempts to circumvent the Laws of Supply and Demand go back considerably more than a century to well before Federation when we first adopted a Protectionist Policy for our industries. This

SCONE NEIGHBOURHOOD RESOURCE CENTRE SUCCESSFUL WITH GRANT

At a motorised scooter information workshop users of scooters identified a need to bring technicians to Scone to assist with maintenance and repairs of motorised scooters. SNRC have been successful in a small grant

that will provide motorised scooter users access to maintenance and support on their scooters. Motorised scooter users in Scone are unable to readily access repairs and maintenance to their machines having to rely on service technicians from either Tamworth

or Newcastle. This results in an additional cost charged by the service companies for the travel and time of the technician in travelling to Scone. As a consequence, maintenance does not occur as frequently as it should since the majority of scooter users are frail or aged

relying on Age or Disability Pensions as their primary income source. To access this service we would require motorised scooter users that would like a booking to phone 6545 2562 or call into the Scone Neighbourhood Centre.

Lee Watts Manager

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 25

Policy was based, and to some extent still is, on the theory, amongst others, that a country such as Australia must endeavour to produce within its borders everything it needs from pins and needles to tractors to clothing. It is an unavoidable fact that most countries have advantages, sometimes unique, in what they produce, and these can include ready access to big markets (Australia in some respects), cheap labour (Australia no), a plentiful supply of raw materials (Australia yes), and so on. As an example, there have been many attempts to produce Australian cars and trucks, and all have

failed or will do so unless the taxpayer continues to subsidise them at great cost. This Policy is very simple, and it is this: If an item which we are producing in Australia cannot compete price-wise against imports, then enforce one of at least three supposedly simple solutions, i.e. (1) Totally prohibit its import. (2) Put a tariff on it high enough to make it no longer competitive with the Australian product. (3) Subsidise the Australian product sufficiently to make it competitive again. Let us not kid ourselves that these policies do not carry severe penalties for us because they do, since either consumers must pay more for the product in question in the form of higher prices for that product, or they must pay more taxes to pass on to subsidised industries; nor is this a dollar for dollar exchange, because in between will be government departments staffed by a legion of Civil Servants to administer the whole creaky edifice, so that perhaps for every dollar it costs us we might be lucky to have seventy five cents directed to where you might imagine it was useful. This Australian Protectionist Policy is not new, indeed it goes back well over a century to a time before Federation when there was no Australia as we know it today, and we consisted of a handful of separate colonies which bickered, jostled and quarrelled amongst themselves in much the same way as nations still do today. There were no Australian armed forces, and instead a motley collection of state armies and navies, if you could call them that.

Protectionism was thriving, particularly in Victoria which was the most advance industrial state, and this was directed not only at overseas imports but also against the various

sister colonies with Victoria the chief offender. There were Custom Houses on the Murray River crossings and, as an example, there was a hefty tariff on the import of cattle into that colony. As another example, Victoria had a sugar beet industry which was threatened with extinction by an efficient Queensland cane sugar industry which produced sugar from sugar cane much more cheaply than the Victorians could manage using sugar beet. The solution was simple, the Victorians put a tariff on Queensland sugar such that it was uncompetitive, and as a result Victorians paid more for their sweeteners.

Sound familiar? Protectionism survived in all it strength till the 1970s when various Federal governments of both political persuasions finally embraced sanity and began dismantling not only Protectionism but also other internal anti-competitive laws and practices so restrictive that today it is difficult to believe they ever existed. For instance, till the mid 1970s it was common practice, and apparently legal, for a company not only to prohibit discounting of their products by the retailers they supplied, but to refuse to supply any who did. These and many other practices became criminal offences under various Trade Practice Laws, and a good example of the changes which resulted is the Motor Vehicle Retailing Industry, where at one time car manufacturers and importers restricted their Dealers to one brand only, theirs. An expensive court case was fought over this situation, the blindingly obvious decision was that such a practice was now illegal, and today multi-franchise dealerships are the norm, not the exception. The net result was fewer but larger and more competitive dealers with the likely possibility of cheaper cars, parts and service due to the efficiencies of greater volume. The policies I have described created distortions, anomalies and anachronisms which threatened to bring down the entire Australian economy, and I will continue next week.

Max Wurker

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 26

TEACHERS RESIST GOVERNMENT CUT-BACKS

On Wednesday 27 June, teachers across NSW participated in industrial action for twenty-four hours. As early as 22 June, Federation sought to prevent industrial action by asking the Education Minister, Adrian Piccoli, to sign the

‗Putting Students First‘ Charter. This charter ensures that funding for public education will not be reduced and that quality permanent positions will not be decreased, further disadvantaging rural schools. Unfortunately, the Honourable Minister and the NSW Premier,

Barry O‘Farrell, refused to sign the charter. This serious breach of good faith and the refusal to acknowledge how important these reforms are for public education left the Teachers Federation with little choice but to take industrial action.

Teachers from Merriwa Central School, Tony March and Warren Coleman accompanied myself to watch the live broadcast of the Town Hall meeting in Newcastle. Thousands of teachers attended live broadcasts across NSW, and endorsed a commitment to continue the

campaign for quality teaching for our students‘

public education. We will keep you updated with further developments.

Mr Coleman and other Association Presidents chairing the meeting.

Sam Horner NSW Teachers Federation Representative

Merriwa Central School

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 27

Entries Close 12 Noon on Monday 30 July

This month the theme is:

The winning photo this month will receive a Prize donated by Merriwa Sports Club.

The competition is open to amateur photographers of all ages.

The winning photo will be published in the Ringer on 2 August and will receive a prize donated by our sponsor. All entries will

be displayed at Merriwa Pharmacy after the winner is

announced.

Each month will be a new competition with a new theme and prize!

Email your entries to: merriwa2-c.school@det.nsw.edu.au or drop them into the office to be scanned.

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 28

MERRIWA NEWSAGENCY Your Local Newspower store and Office Smart agent.

www.merriwanewsagency.com.au

Welcome back to the Ringer. We hope everyone had a fun-filled school holiday. We would like to thank everyone for their support and concern regarding the recent incident at the Newsagency. Congratulations We would like to congratulate St Joseph‘s Primary School for a successful Junior Campdraft, Sporting and Fun Day. It was wonderful to see so many kids and parents enjoying themselves. The weather could not have been better and a good day seemed to be on the agenda for everyone who attended. Spirit Of St Joseph We would like to congratulate Cameron Ninness, the winner from Term 2. He is always in attendance at local community events and has displayed valuable leadership qualities. This award is given based on students‘ display of qualities that show the spirit of the school. The school welcomes any community help in choosing a recipient for this award, so if you witness a student behaving in such a way, please do not hesitate to let the staff know. Sharyn Munro Last week, Sharyn Munro came to Merriwa and gave a speech to the community about her latest book. Rich Land Waste Land looks at the cost of coal mining and coal seam gas mining

on the people and the landscape of Australia. This is an important issue that the community of Merriwa is facing as mining companies seek access to properties in this area. The speech

Sharyn gave was well presented, informative, fascinating and distressing. If you are interested in what she has written on the subject we do still have copies of her book in stock. Stationery Sale Still On The End of the Financial Year has come and gone, and as we start the new one we should get organised so that it runs more smoothly than the last one. This is where stationery is important. Paper Shredder- these are important as they allow us to destroy documents that are out of date but still hold important information. Ink jets Stock up now while they are on special. Tip: buy a new one when you have just put a full one into the printer. This way, you will never

run out and have the added stress of getting one in the middle of a project, assignment, accounts day etc. Books We have a new range of fiction novels in stock. They are a great price and there are many authors that you will recognise and love. There are titles by Lynda La Plante, Andrew Gross, Ken Follett, Colleen Gleason, David Baldacci, Val McDermid, Virginia Andrews, Robert Goddard, Jack Higgins and so many more. The best part is that that you can get 3 books for under $15. This is a great bargain and will last as long as we have books in stock, so don‘t leave it too late.

New We have just installed a new phone card system and it is faster and better than the old one. There is also a wider range of products on offer.

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 29

REMINDER

The deadline for all articles and advertisements is Monday Noon, for distribution on Thursday

BEGINNERS DSLR FUNDAMENTAL PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP When: Saturday 25 August 2012

Time:9:00am – 3:30 pm Where: Merriwa Central School Great Hall

Cost: $45—Numbers are limited so book on 6548 2319 and leave your name and number.

Workshop covers: Knowing your camera and it‘s capabilities, Camera Fundamentals, Understanding Terminology, Techniques for taking better photos,

Equipment and Software. Suzie Kirk

Australian Institute of Professional Photographers

Layer Pullets Commercial crossbred layer pullets

12 week old Isa Browns Vaccinated and not de-beaked

$14 Available from Merriwa Petroleum & Ag

Wednesday 25 July 9.30am PH 6548 2071

GARAGE SALE

SUNDAY 10am 22 July

81 King George V Ave

Cash Only

Phone cards There are all of the major phone companies, as well as a good range of the minor ones- Telstra, Optus, Virgin, Boost etc. Internet- There are a good range of pre-paid internet providers including Telstra, Optus, Dodo, iprimus, Boost, and more. Music and Movies We also now have vouchers for Bigpond Music, Bigpond Games and Bigpond Movies so you can download at your leisure. Phone Cards; all cards are now available including Telstra, Optus & Vodaphone. Cash or Eftpos only.

Neville & Leanne Hook

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 30

HELLO FRIENDS OF IGA Welcome back everyone, we may have had a 2 week break in correspondence but plenty

has been happening. So its time for the IGA wrap up. You may have noticed that IGA has given the locked down sale a face lift with a new song on television and new signs in store. So make

sure you take advantage of these savings, remember just look for the lock and save big! This week in liquor there are specials to take advantage of, with many of your favourites at prices you like. The specials this week are as

follows: More Beer for your Buck! Carlton

Draught, Tooheys New and Tooheys Extra Dry 24 packs, $38.99 each.

2 for $75 Multi Buy on selected 700ml spirits including, Bulleit Bourbon,

Smirnoff, Bundaberg Rum, American Honey and Wild Turkey.

XXXX Summer Bright Lager and Victoria Pale Lager 24 packs, $39.99 each.

3 for $20 Multi Buy on selected 750ml wines, including Hardy‘s Nottage Hill Shiraz, Long Flat Semillon Sauvignon Blanc and Eagle Hawk Cabernet Sauvignon.

2 for $60 Multi Buy on selected 700ml spirits including, Vat 69, Baker Street English Gin, Eriskay Whiskey, Imperial Court Vodka and Bear Glass Creek Bourbon.

Brown Brothers Ziberro, Riccadonna Asti and Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc, all at the low price of $12.99 each.

2 for $64 Multi Buy on Jonnie Walker Red Label, Bulleit Bourbon and Bundaberg Rum 10 packs.

Crown Lager 24 packs, $44.99 each.

So we hope to see you this week, enjoy the bargains to be had. The Weekly Grocery Specials Catalogue starting Monday July 16 and continuing until Sunday July 22 is in store now and there are savings of up to 55% off, so it‘s definitely a good idea to take advantage of the specials this week. The Fresh Food specials are something to have a look at; some prices are so low they‘ll be walking out the door. The specials this week are as follows so take notes: Beef T-bone steak, $15.99 per kg. Economy Beef Scotch Fillet Steak, $12.99

per kg. Family Chef Boned & Netted Pork

Shoulder Roast, $9.89 per kg. Fresh Chicken Thigh Fillets, $8.99 per kg. Butterfly Lamb Legs Mixed Flavours,

$18.99 per kg. KR Castlemaine Virginian Ham, $10.99

per kg. Large BBQ Chicken Marinated, Plain or

Seasoned, $8.99 each. Primo Cocktail or Thin Frankfurts, $5.99

per kg Pre Packed Carrots 1.25kg, $1.29 each

bag. Pre Packed Brown Onions 1.5kg, $1.69

each bag. Loose Navel Oranges, $1.49 per kg. Packham Pears, $1.99 per kg. Quality and Freshness is always ensured at IGA, with a 200% guarantee that has stood for 10 years, that‘s something you can trust. You‘ll find our friendly service, market fresh food and a range that suits you is just how the locals like! Until next week.

Daniel Hogan

WOOLBROOK RURAL INDUSTRIES MERRIWA

NURSERY AND IRRIGATION

Depot Road, Merriwa

WOOLBROOK RURAL INDUSTRIES: Please

call Max Wurcker 6548 2150

REMINDER

The deadline for articles and advertisements for the Merriwa Ringer is

Monday 12.00pm

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 31

Shop 1/17 Bridge Street www.jtsrealty.com.au Muswellbrook NSW 2333 jtsrealty@rslcom.net.au Ph: 6541 5331 Fax: 6541 0330

44 King George Avenue, Merriwa - $235,000

Situated on a flat 1 acre block this classic weatherboard home has had most of the hard work done and presents in excellent condition.

It has been re-wired, re-plumbed and painted inside and out. There are 4 big bedrooms one

with a built in, while the others have plenty of room to put them in. There are 3 living areas, a lounge with reverse cycle air conditioning and a combustion fire, a good sized family room plus a sun room. The kitchen is original

and has been freshly painted and features a new large chef's oven plus a combustion stove. Some special features of the home are ornate ceilings and dado rails throughout. For storage there is 2 double garages one with power and remote doors. Opposite the

golf course, tennis courts, Skate Park and walking distance to the club, shops and schools

this is an ideal family home.

Lot 111 Cullingral Rd, Merriwa - $200,000 Situated 9km's from Merriwa on a tar sealed road, this property is prime for development. The land is 50 Acres

and can be subdivided into 4 blocks all with dwelling entitlements. Power and phone are both available. Fronting a permanent creek and with several excellent

building sites it would make beautiful rural sub-division, or simply build your own and enjoy the serenity while only 10 minutes to town and with the school bus at the

front gate.

INDIAN CUISINE WITH THE MERRIWA VIEW CLUB

Would you like to try out our newest Restaurant in town? - Have a taste of the Indian dishes being served up by Spice & Grill? Well you had better come along to the next Dinner Meeting of the Merriwa VIEW Club. You don‘t have to be a member but you do have to be female! Sorry guys! Just book yourself in on Monday 23 by

phoning Elaine Sparrow on 6548 8560, then turn up on Thursday night and enjoy the delicious flavour and the wonderful company of VIEW ladies. Come and join us and enjoy a night out on the town !!! BYO drinks and the meal will cost $25. Time will be 7pm for

fellowship and a 7.30pm meal. Our guest speaker on the night will be local identity Monika Stewart who will talk to us on iridology & natural therapies.

It will be a great night. If you are not a VIEW

lady come along and join us for the night. VIEW nights are full of talk, enjoyment, talk, good food, talk ……. and I think you get my meaning – we enjoy a night out with good company.

Lucky door prize will be donated by Sue Cronin and the raffle by Julie Byrne. Spice & Grill are permitted to have alcohol on the premises so bring your own drink. For catering purposes please ring Elaine 6548 8560 on Monday night 23 July with names.

Elaine Sparrow

Merriwa VIEW Secretary

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 32

The Merriwa Community News is available to charity groups or non-funded, not for profit organisations and anyone wishing to advise of a special event (birthday/anniversary/etc). If you would like to make use of this

free service, please contact us prior to 12pm Mondays.

MERRIWA TENNIS CLUB Merriwa Tennis Club will be holding their AGM meeting on Tuesday 24 July at Merriwa RSL Club from 6pm. All members are encouraged to attend this meeting to keep tennis in Merriwa alive. All positions will be declared vacant.

Loretta Cooper

THANK YOU The Anglican Parish of Merriwa wishes to acknowledge the generosity and fine workmanship of Ted Carr, who has built the foundation to the new columbarium in the grounds of Holy Trinity Church, Merriwa.

We thank you Ted for your faithfulness and good-will.

Reverend Mandy Wheatley

INVITATION: M.CAMPBELL & CO REUNION

This year is the 150th anniversary of the establishment of M. Campbell & Co at Muswellbrook in 1862. The company expanded

throughout the Upper Hunter and established a number of subsidiary businesses, including Campbells Rural Supplies and Campbells Garages – the company was represented in some form or another in almost every community in the Upper Hunter. To mark the occasion, we invite all past staff, family and friends who may have been associated with anyone of the Campbell‘s empire to come along to the Reunion at Muswellbrook RSL Club on Saturday evening 1 September 2012. The Reunion will kick off at 6.30pm with a delicious Buffett Dinner and lots of good cheer and wonderful stories throughout the evening. Your Master of Ceremonies for the occasion will be Geoff Delforce and Hostesses, Pam King and Helen Ellis. The cost is $25.00 per person and bookings and payment must be confirmed by 5.00pm Tuesday 28 August 2012. Please book by contacting the Muswellbrook RSL Club Phone: 6543 1700. For more information, please contact Kevin Doherty at Muswellbrook Visitor Centre Ph: 6541 4050 o r e m a i l : visitorcentre@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au

Kevin Doherty Muswellbrook Visitor Centre

GRIEF SEMINAR An invitation to a special afternoon with Jan Walmsley, a leading grief and loss counsellor. I‘ll Never Get Over This. This is almost the universal and initial response when one suffers a major loss in life. It‘s the first expression of deep grief and seems to be an irreversible truth. However, a new way of living can emerge from intense sorrow and this afternoons seminar will look at the experience of grief and its unique nature. Time will be available for sharing, discussion and questions, or just listening. All interested professionals & members of the Public are invited to come along and join Muswellbrook Carelink Inc. Venue: Conference Room Weidmann Wing, Muswellbrook Hospital Date: Saturday 4 August 2012 Time: 1 pm for 1.30 pm. Finish by 4pm. Afternoon Tea provided - please ring for catering purposes. RSVP: 6542 2041 or 0448 831 839. No cost involved.

Stacey Cameron

TO NATHAN & KAYLA Congratulations on the birth of your beautiful baby girl, Eden, born 11 July 2012.

Love always Dad, Kaitlynd & Jake Barry

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 33

MERRIWA DISTRICT PROGRESS ASSOCIATION INC

The next meeting of the Merriwa District Progress Association is on Wednesday 25 July at the RSL commencing at 6:00 pm. If you have any issues relating to the Merriwa area, this is your opportunity to raise them.

Beron Arden-Wood

6548 2245

CONGRATULATIONS I would like to congratulate the hardworking team involved in organising and running the St Joseph's campdraft and fun day on 30 June 2012. It was a credit to everyone involved and the smiles on the children's faces was evident

that the day was a huge success. Congratulations to Principal Helen Whale and the St Joseph's P&F for holding a wonderful community event.

Roger Moore

MERRIWA DISTRICT EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The annual general meeting will be held on Thursday 2 August 2012 at Merriwa RSL Club from 6.00pm. All interested parties welcome.

Jane Hegarty 6376 1052

CANCELLATION St Josephs P&F Street Stall is cancelled for this Friday 20 July. Thank you.

Megan Moore

PIE & LAMINGTON DRIVE St David‘s wishes to thank everyone who supported us with orders or delivered goods. I‘m sure you have enjoyed the goodies. Thank you too, to the Ringer for the regular advertising, and to all the business houses for

their support in having the sheets displayed. We do appreciate your co-operation, which is far above the call of duty.

Barbara Campbell

RETIREMENT The Upper Hunter Weeds Authority would like to advise that long serving staff member Jeffery

Riley has retired. You can now contact Doug Campbell with any enquires on 6549 3803.

Doug Campbell

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 34

MERRIWA CWA Last Thursday Merriwa CWA played host to branches from around the Hunter River Group

for their Agriculture and Environment and International Day. Members and other guests watched videos on Timor Leste and admired the posters that were entered in the competition by students from Merriwa Central School and St Joseph‘s Merriwa. The posters

have been judged and the winners will be announced next week. Guest speakers Aileen Hogan, secretary of the Merriwa Branch of the NSW Farmers spoke about the need to continue to develop agricultural research and education. Upper Hunter author Sharyn Munro

spoke about her most recent book Rich Land WasteLand – How Coal is Killing Australia and the personal stories of loss and despair that she had heard from those people willing to be interviewed during her research for the book. Rosalie, our cultural officer, would like to

remind members that they are to bring to the next meeting a 2-3 minute story of memories from their teenage years to share with others.

I would like to thank all those that supported us last Thursday and especially to the members that helped with setting up, catering, raffle sales your support and enthusiasm was one of the strengths of the day.

Sandra Stewart Merriwa CWA - Publicity Officer

IT IS CHRISTMAS IN JULY AT HUNTER MUTUAL

We are all looking to get the most from our hard earned dollar. You would be aware that the Reserve Bank has cut the official overnight cash rate which has allowed financial institutions to reduce the interest rate on home loans. This has put a smile on the faces of the borrowers.

But, what about the savers. In the last 9 months cash rates have dropped by 1.25% to 3.50%. We at Hunter Mutual are trying to give depositors something to smile about as well. We have a special term deposit rate for

one day only, 25 July. You will get a great rate for 3 months, and you only need as little as $1000 to get involved. Have a look, see if you have any money sitting around in your bank accounts not earning much, check out your current term rates, maybe you would

like to bring it in and together we can help it grow. Hunter Mutual, at the heart of our community, why not drop in or give us a call on 6548 2651.

Trudie Byfield with Fiona, Kylie and Amy

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 35 MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 7 June Page 35

NAME PHONE

Andy Carrigan 6548 2646

Anthea Wright Veterinary Service

6548 2452

Bates Removals 0411 530 246

Boardman Peasley Pty Ltd 6543 3600

Bricklayer Block layer 6548 2591

Cassilis Bowling Club 6376 1002

Cassilis Public School 6376 1009

CJ & JM Vero 6548 2303

CJ Kelly Funerals 02 4309 0334

Colles Manufactured Homes Pty Ltd

4353 3606

Craig McPherson Haulage 6548 2663

Cross Country Merriwa 6548 2106

Curls & Swirls 6548 2499

Curtis, Irving & Gant 6543 2433

David Houlahan 0429 585 119

Dean Hancock - Master Farrier

0488 591 723

Di’s Clothing Patch 6548 3023

Festival of the Fleeces 6521 7046

Hair Indeed 6548 2666

Hanckel Hay Sales 6548 5168

Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority

6542 4444

Hunter Mutual 6548 2651

Intergrated Living 1300 778 718

MA Macdonald & Co 6548 2226

McConnell’s This ‘n’ That 6548 2889

Melaleuka Rural Services 0429 131 339

Merriwa Activity Centre 6548 2082

Merriwa Amateur Swim Club

6548 8510

Merriwa Anglican Parish 0429996769

NAME PHONE Merriwa Caravan Park 0418 668

402

Merriwa Catholic Parish St Vincent de Paul

6548 2086 6548 3092

Merriwa Central School Primary office Secondary office

6548 2101 6548 2119

Merriwa Central School P&C Association

6548 2119

Merriwa Cricket Club 0428 485 110

Merriwa Darts Competition

0428 899 749

Merriwa District Health Non-Emergency Medical Transport

6548 2653

Merriwa District Progress Association

6548 2245 6548 3060

Merriwa Engineering 0427 476085

Merriwa Home Hardware 6548 2077

Merriwa Healthy Environment Group

6547 6048

Merriwa Junior League & Netball

0437 482 375

Merriwa Little Athletics 0427 799 22

Merriwa Magpies Rugby League Football Club

0411 800255

Merriwa Newsagents 6548 2031

Merriwa Pharmacy 6548 2213

Merriwa Post Office 6548 2042

Merriwa Pre-School & Kindergarten Association

6548 2083

Merriwa Race Club 0427 482 095

Merriwa RSL Club Restaurant

6548 2157 6548 2295

Merriwa Rotary Club 6548 2025

Merriwa Springtime Show

0402 484 018

Merriwa Sports Club Restaurant

6548 2028 6548 3228

Merriwa Surgery 6548 2305

Merriwa Tennis Club 6548 2679

Merriwa Traders - IGA 6548 2315

Merriwa Tourist Welcoming Centre

6548 3201

NAME PHONE

Merriwa Tyre & Service Centre

6548 2078

Mick Hayes Concrete Pump Hire

0417 006 640

Monocom Computers & Home Theatre

0457 343 742

Mortgage Choice - Lauren Murphy

0408 480 562

Panorama Motor Inn 4943 3144

Pitt Son & Keene Elders 6548 2307

Rockwell Livestock 6548 5100

Russell’s Earthmoving 6548 2246

Scott Witton Building 0427 761 169

St David’s Uniting Church 6548 5131

Steve Cowell - Horse Shoeing

6548 7220

St Joseph’s Primary School 6548 2035

Stokes Dr Bronwyn After Hours

6532 5013 6532 5000

Tash Holden Communications

6548 5002

Trinity Markets 6548 2323

Upper Hunter Shire Council - Merriwa Branch

6521 7000

Welderup 6548 2500

Whale, Mark 6548 2389

Woolbrook Rural Industries 6548 2150

Don‘t see your listing here? Then you need to contact The Ringer to organise your sponsorship for 2012!

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 36

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 37

POSITIVE FEED BACK RECEIVED FOR THE MERRIWA FESTIVAL OF THE FLEECES

As everyone would agree, the Festival of the Fleeces for 2012 was a great day! It was filled with heaps to do, fun for everyone and it brought Merriwa to life. In the weeks after the festival, many letters and emails of praise have arrived in the committee‘s hands. After a recent meeting, it was decided to share this

feed back, so we have decided to publish a few of the letters received. Dear Sirs, re: Running of the Sheep Weekend at Merriwa May I offer my congratulations to you and the

township on this marvellous event you held earlier this month. Several members of my family and I stayed at the motel and showgrounds and we were so impressed with the amount of activities for all age groups, the attention to detail, the enthusiasm and

friendliness, the ease with which everything ran and the general sense of goodwill and enjoyment in the whole town. All the above requires great leadership and direction, plus forward planning and for this I thank you. Each one of us have said we would definitely

come again next year. We are now doing verbal advertising on behalf of the Merriwa weekend for next year as so many folk in Dubbo and Newcastle do not know what a wonderful time this is. Thank you again.

Margaret Duncan Hi Committee,

Thank you for your email. The weekend was wonderful: so much fun and I really enjoyed

everything. The people were very hospitable, and helped with putting up the stand, banners etc. I got lots of great photos and will send them to you tomorrow hopefully. And thanks for your help with the event. Kind regards,

Srisutha Suntharesan Ausgrid

Post Festival email, Our site worked out really well for this year‘s event. We fitted nicely in between the driveways of the tyre service which allowed the disabled people to use the driveway ramps to come off the footpath and along the front of our stall. Just as important the ability to work in with the Tyre Service to park beside

their building with our refrigerated truck

enabled us to replenish our stock through the day. The site was relatively level for the safe display of our range of jams, pickles and relishes. We are very grateful to the Tyre Service for their hospitality and help during the day. So as to secure this site for next year‘s

event and to provide for sun shade protection we would like to book this space and pay for it as 3 sites. You and the committee certainly had another marvellous event and we wish you all the success for next year. The stallholders who we told about your event and came to the

event all told us they had an excellent day and they have confirmed to other stallholders whom we had told that we were right about the day and some of these reckon that they will book for next year. Again I have included your event in my markets and festivals listing which I publish each year. Regards,

Geraldine McKay The Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces commends all that were involved in the festival for a well organised and eventful day and hope that in 2013, they can again host a memorable day for all that attend! There didn‘t seem to be many Merriwa organisations that didn‘t have some form of involvement on the day. Got idea‘s? Consider coming on the committee, this is open to all ages. The youngest committee member is 16 and has been on the committee for 2 years, the eldest is someone who can offer a world of knowledge as their age provides... Keep your eyes open for the afternoon tea, as the committee hands over the funds raised from the day. We will be inviting the community and media to take part as we make the donations to Merriwa and District Rescue Squad, Westpac Helicopter and the Cancer Council. Don‘t forget to get your photos in, for the Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces Photo Competition by 20 August 2012.

Tina Taylor Festival Committee

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 38

MORE THAN JUST A POST OFFICE! Win a trip to the Olympics - Simply spend $20 or more at Merriwa Post Office, including Bill Pay (but not banking) fill-in the card and pop it in the post. Entry is free - no stamp required this time! Gold prize is a full expenses paid trip to London for two and the Olympics valued at $34,000. Silver prize is also a trip for two to the Olympics worth $14,000 and Bronze prizes of

Olympic themed merchandise valued up to $300. Enter as many times as you like as long as you spend $20 or more each time. Hurry, entries close soon – and you don‘t want to miss the Olympics!

Motorola Defy Give Away - Our mobile phone supplier has given us just one Driver Pack to give away free with the Defy 3.7 inch touch screen mobile. The free pack includes a car cradle and Bluetooth unit to enable calls and music over your cars FM radio. Car charger and

adapters also included. Motorola‘s fabulous Defy mobile has 5 Megapixel camera with flash, water-dust-scratch resistance touch screen and fast 1Gb processor amongst many other features. The lot for $249 if you‘re quick. Reduced Samsung Galaxy Ace - We also have just one example of this popular 3.5 inch touch screen mobile discounted by $30 to only $169. This phone is brand new in box with full warranty but the box seal has been broken. The Galaxy Ace has 5Mpx camera with autofocus and video and much more. Microscope Set - This is a beautifully presented unit that would make a useful and educational gift for the young scientist or botanist – or any child that has interests other than mindless computer games. Adults too! All metal construction and up to 900x magnification with built-in light. The microscope and 27 other pieces make up this set which is all housed in a hard shell presentation case for a long lasting gift - $49.99. High Def. TV with DVD - We have TV‘s, monitors, Set-Top boxes, portable DVD players in two sizes and now we have in stock a great value HD TV with a DVD player for only $179. This one is ideal for small rooms and caravans. The Vivo LCD HD widescreen TV has 18.5 inch (47 cm) screen and built-in DVD player, card

reader and two USB connections. This means it can act as a PVR (personal video recorder) by recording or pausing programmes via a USB memory stick. HDMI connection to other sources gives the best HD picture and sound. In other words all the latest features for just $179. If you just want the TV alone we have the 15.4 inch version for only $99.95. Olin Portable DVD‘s back in stock - These have been popular for the car and kids rooms and we have a new batch in stock now. The 7 inch PD708B is only $59.95 and has a 7 inch swivel widescreen and is compatible with most discs and files. It accommodates USB & SD cards as well as MP3 files. Use the internal speakers or earphones and comes with a remote and a carry case. We also stock the bigger 9 inch screen version for $99.95.

External Hard Drives always in stock - Nowadays a computer essential is to back up periodically onto an external drive. Don‘t and one day your internal HDD will crash and you‘ll loose everything. Trust me!

There are basically two types of external hard drive discs (HDD‘s) – mains powered and powered from the USB connection. As implied, the mains HDD plugs into 240v mains as well as a USB connection on your PC or portable computer. The mains types can be disconnected and moved around but tend to be bigger and heavier. The USB only powered HDD is smaller and lighter and can easily be disconnected and carried around. The smaller units tend to max out at about 500 Gb capacity and be relatively more expensive whilst the bigger mains units can have up to 3Tb (3 terabyte or 3000Gb). We have the reputable Seagate brand 500Gb USB powered HDD for $89 and the mains Seagate 2Tb for $134. We also have the Seagate GoFlex Desk 1Tb with removable base adapter for upgrade to a faster interface and this includes backup software to easily and automatically backup files and folders on your computer. DVD player for $39! While stocks last we have the smart looking Olin DVD player which has all the necessary

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 39

FOR RENT Merriwa

3 bedroom house, carport, r/c/a/c located close to

schools and shops. Available 27 July $260 p/w

3 bedroom house, carport, built inn’s in main

bedroom, r/c/a/c. Available 24 July $260 p/w

2 bedroom house, sleep out, built in’s, fire place,

carport. Available now, $250 p/w

3 bedroom cottage located approx 19kms west

from Merriwa. Available now.

$180 p/w

For more information or to obtain a

application form please contact

Megan on 6548 2008

Date: September 1, 2012 Venue: Merriwa RSL Club

Dress: Black Tie/ Lounge Suit

Bookings & Details - Phone 0417 060 381

Merriwa Showgirl Competition

At the Ball, the Show committee will introduce the 2012 entrants in the

Merriwa Showgirl competition.

More information – phone 0417 060 381

MERRIWA 2012 SPRINGTIME SHOW BALL

features for a tiny price. Has 5.1 channel for surround sound, a USB connection, MP3 compatibility and a microphone socket for Karaoke. Open from 8am – 5pm weekday 9am – 11 am most Saturdays

Postmasters thought for the week: Eighty percent of success in life can be attributed to just showing up.

Melism

Mel Gillott & Kerry Anne with Colleen & Kylie

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 40

IS THERE PLATYPUS AT YOUR PLACE?

Have you been fortunate enough to spot a platypus on your property?

If you have spotted platypus in the water ways on your property or are curious to know if there is a chance you may have them, then you will be interested in an upcoming workshop run by the Hunter-Central Rivers catchment

Management Authority (CMA). The CMA will be running a workshop for landholders in the Tuggerah Lakes catchment who are interested in platypus and their habitat. The workshop is coordinated by the CMA and

has been funded by the Australian Government‘s Caring for our Country. CMA Catchment officer Carolyn Jenkinson said ‗We are fortunate to have leading platypus expert Lynette Fletcher running the workshop.

Lynette has many years experience in platypus research and will be available to discuss her research and ways landholders can improve the habitat on their properties to encourage platypus.‘ ‗Landholders will also have the opportunity to participate in a waterbug survey to gain a deeper understanding of what platypus like to e a t ‘ s a i d M s J e n k i n s o n . CMA staff will be on hand to discuss project opportunities on properties and provide expert advice on the management of riverbank and creekline vegetation. The field day will be held at Jilliby from 10am-2pm. Registration is essential. To register contact Carolyn Jenkinson on (02) 4337 1213 or email carolyn.jenkinson@cma.nsw.gov.au

Phoebe Trongchittham

CASSILIS BOWLING CLUB Friday night fun: Friday night is Darts night – 7pm start – names to club by 6.45pm. Last

week results – Chook: Christine. Friday night Snack Bar – The Two Ds Affordable family meals. Friday night raffles: Meat trays, Vege trays,

Schooner Draw, Joker Draw, Members Draw. Last week‘s results Members Draw: $65 – Max Weis -

unclaimed - $70 next week. Joker Draw: $792 – Paula Palmer –

unsuccessful - $828 next week. Tai Chi – (will resume in September – watch this space) - Low impact exercise. Excellent for relaxation, balance and reducing high blood pressure. Gold coin donation. Come along and

join us. See you there. Saturday July 28 at 6.30pm Cassilis Public School Masquerade Party Entertainment provided by 'The Sly Pigs' $20 admission for adults, $10 for children. Lovely meal, good music and fun prizes come join us for a great night! For bookings, please phone Vanessa on 6376 4629 or Joleane on 6377 4563 on RSVP 20 July 2012 (this Friday). Internet - Check out our website at www.cassilisbowlingclub.com.au Facebook - The club now has its own Facebook Page, so please check it out and like us. Coming Events will also be advertised on this page as well as the web page (as soon as there is a confirmed date for them).

Hilary Parker

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 41

SHOEING

TRIMMING

Contact Steve 6548 7220 after 6pm

MERRIWA RSL CLUB The Members Lucky Badge for $700.00 was not won on Friday at 8.30pm the number was 846,

this week it jackpots to $750.00. The 7pm draw for $540.00 was not won the number was 608, this week it jackpots to $560.00. The 9pm draw for $120.00 was not won the number was 299, this week it jackpots to $140.00. LTPS/12/03880

The Sunday Morning Badge Draw for $500.00 was not won last week the number was 169, this week it jackpots to $550.00 and will be drawn between 11.30am and 1.30pm and you must be present to win the money.

LTPS/12/03880 The Friday 8.30pm badge draw and the Sunday badge draw both now commence at $500.00. Coming Events

As of Friday 20 July 2012 nominations are invited for the position of President, other office bearers and Board Members for the financial year ending June 30 2013. Nominations open on Friday 20 July 2012 and close on Sunday 5 August 2012. The elections will be held from Friday 24 August through to Sunday 2 September 2012 during normal club operating hours.

Saturday 6 October - The Beetles & Classic Creedence Show more details as it gets closer.

The Merriwa R.S.L Club Magpies play Round 14 of the Thiess Services Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League competition at home this weekend on Saturday 21st July at No.1 Oval against the Scone Thoroughbreds in a must win match to make it to the semi finals, kickoff 3.00pm.

Matt Morgan Secretary/Manager

MERRIWA SPORTS CLUB Saturday 14 July Saturday Members Draw 446 Not Won

Next week $150 Winners Jackpot 42217 Not Won Next

week $1200 Free Tickets Amber Austin Dinner May Riley Bowls Raffle Eboney McConnell

Sunday 15 July Sunday Members draw No 493 Not Won

Next week $500 $20 one off prizes No 492 Not Won &

No 494 Not Won

Transport Service is available Friday and Saturday. Don‘t take the risk and drive when for $3 per person you can be chauffeured home. To access the transport service you must book through the Sports Club to check availability of the service.

Members and Associations - Looking for a venue to hold your meetings? The Sports Club may be able to assist. Please contact the Club for further details.

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 42

MERRIWA PONY CLUB What a busy time ahead of us! Merriwa pony club will host their ribbon day at the showground on Sunday 29 July 2012. The day will consist of a campdraft and sporting program. The campdraft program will consist of

Under 9 yrs – cut out, 7-9 yrs – campdraft, 9-11 yrs – cut out, 9-11 yrs – campdraft, 11-13 yrs – cut out, 11-13 yrs – campdraft, 13-15 yrs – campdraft, 15-17 yrs – campdraft, 17-25 yrs – campdraft. The sporting program will consist of flag, bend, barrel, mug, cloverleaf barrel and diamond flag race. The leds are not age grouped and will be non-competitive in the flag, bending, barrel, cloverleaf barrel and mug race. Nominations for the campdraft are to be written and prepaid to Christine Riley by Wednesday 25 July 2012. Unfortunately the bison school to be held on Saturday 28 July has had to be cancelled due to

Producers Market Sunday 22 July 8:00am to 1:00pm Stalls include: Falcon Grove Olives: Oils, Vinegars &

tastings Endora Aromatherapy: Soaps, (soy) reed

diffusers and hand made candles Stone Hill Winery: Wines and Vegies Colleen Olderman: Flowers and Plants Stalls still available. For full details see one of the Market committee members which comprises of Jason Rosa, Darren Crawford, Dale Quinney. Bingo Every Thursday Night commences 7:00pm Win Sporties Vouchers for meat and other business houses + Super 39 $100 Gift Voucher

Saturday 10 August ―Matt O‘Leary‖ Next monthly Smorgasbord will be Sunday 29 July The Sporties Chinese/Australian Restaurant. Smorgasbord Last Sunday in the Month - All you can eat Entree‘s Mains and Desert. $18 Adult $12 children under 12. Shan and Jinna also have lunch time specials $7.50. Open for Lunch Wednesday to Sunday 12noon to 2:00pm . Dinner Tuesday to Sunday 5:30pm to 9:00pm Closed Mondays. Reopens 5:00pm Tuesday. For bookings and take away ring 6548 3228.

John Rindfliesh

LADY BOWLERS NEWS Wednesday 4 July was our Association Day. It was great to welcome players from all our District club‘s. Although there was a heavy frost when we arrived it turned out a beautiful sunny day. Merriwa players received some prizes with Joy in the winning team, Sylvia in the 2nd Team and Marissa in the 3rd Team.

Other winners were:- Spider Bev Shoobert, Coin Pam Watson

and Ditch Colleen Saunders 50 Club - 1st Deidre Peebles 2nd Sue

Talbot and 3rd Karen Eylert and the raffle was won by Pam Austin.

Thank you to all our members for their help on the Day, to Sue for coming to do the raffle and Arthur for preparing the green so well. Especially, thanks to those who provided all the prizes for the day. The weather has again spoilt some of our mufti days, however, on Wednesday 27 June in a p a i r s g a m e , P h i l o m e n a and Loretta were runaway winners. Our AGM was held last month. Details Next

week. Coming up Wednesday 25 July Mufti Day 10:00am. Wednesday 1 August Murrurundi

Association day.

Beatrice Voysey

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 17 July Page 43

* When reporting an incident to the Police, always request and record your Incident Reference Number

UPPER HUNTER VETERAN’S GOLF Twenty-two Vets enjoyed the winter conditions on the testing Scone Golf Course on Tuesday, 10 July. In contrast with the cool temperatures the scoring was hot with three players recording 40 points.

The winner on the count-back over the last three holes was Bill Hunter from Reg Davidson.

In the ball comp balls went to Carey Wallace 40, Jeff Harrington 39, Graham Guest 38, Col Solway, Gary Gray and Laurie Hollins 36, and Noel Kelly, Graham Boles, Ron Bartush, Jim Elder and Bob Thorley 35.

Nearest the Pins: 2nd/11th Graham Boles 8th/17th Rod Auld

On Tuesday, 17 July we will play a two ball best ball stableford at Denman with hit-off from 8.00 till 8.30am. On Tuesday, 24 July we play a stroke with putting event at Aberdeen with hit-off from 8.00 till 8.30am.

Graham Turvey

the instructor and bison being unavailable. However, we are trying to get another date later in the year. The Jamboree will be held at Cassilis on the 8 and 9 September. Entries must be sent to Christine with payment before 7 August. The program and entry forms have been emailed to everyone for both the campdraft day and the Jamboree. Check them out, fill them in and give them to Christine with payment by the due date. Any problems ring Christine 0427 412 128. Upcoming dates: 29 July - Merriwa Campdraft and

Sporting Day 4 August - Singleton Showjumping 5 August - Singleton Showjumping

12 July - Rally Day 25 August - Zone ODE 26 August - Zone ODE 9 September - Jamboree Cassilis Happy Riding

Tanya Niness

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 44

LADIES GOLF Round 3 of the Championships was played on Wednesday 27 June. A beautiful crisp morning

saw 2 teams of 4 ladies take to the course for a couple of hours chasing the little white ball a r o u n d t h e p a d d o c k .

Hats off to Jane Hegarty who has only been playing for a year, who won on a 69 net. That astounding result was made more spectacular as she had produced a Birdie and a Gobbler on the 18th. A gobbler is a term used by the ladies to describe a shot that goes into the hole from off the green. Well done Jane. Some of the rest of us didn‘t quite manage to tame our balls to such a degree. In fact some were quite wayward.

Runner up on a countback was Captain Di with a net of 76; winner of nearest the pin on the 9th was Mary Rodgers and the ball draw was won by De Patterson.

Next week is a big one with the Monthly Medal to be played on Wednesday and some of the ladies are traveling to Aberdeen on Friday for their Tartan Day. So we will be having a wee bit of fun on the beautiful Aberdeen course.

If you like fresh air, walking and good company come and join us. Grab some sticks, join the fun and enjoy a great morning out. You might even be good at it.

It was a big week for the lady golfers this week. The last round of Club Championships and the Monthly Medal were held on Wednesday 4 July and was won by De Patterson with a 73 and Jane Hegarty was runner up with a 76. De was on fire that day as she also won nearest the pin on the 4th and closest to the pin with the second shot on the 18th. Diedre won the ball draw. It was a beautiful day to play and I am told not only did

the sun shine, but also all members missed the tree on the 12th.

On Friday Sue & Tania, Merrie & De, Dinie & Gai, Robyn & Diedre donned various pieces of tartan and set of to Aberdeen to participate in the Highland Games. A stirring performance of precision marching with drums, guns and bayonets by the Australian Defence Forces before we teed off set the tone for the days play. We all played in pairs and there was a shotgun start. Both players teed off, chose the best first shot and then played alternate shots to finish the hole. It was great fun and

beautifully organised by the Aberdeen ladies. From a strong field Sue & Tania came 5th with a 74 net with Merrie & De following at 6th with a net of 75.5. Merrie had a spectacular shot on the 4th to get nearest the pin. Another very

important trophy came home to Merriwa. A bottle of scotch won by Tania with a deft throw of a coin to land bang up against the bottle! Such precision. Congratulations to the ladies from the Aberdeen

club for a wonderfully organised, happy, friendly day of golf and for the much needed delicious soups and sweets at the end of the day‘s play. We all came home with a prize. In an otherwise wet and chilly week, the sun

shone on Wednesday for the Stableford and putting competition. The winner of the putting competition with 27 putts was Tania. Her precision putting saw her sink balls from on and off the green. While others circled, she just sunk them. After a round of huge hits, Merrie won the Stableford with 35 points. Like Merrie, sometimes you need binoculars to follow the ball when De hits off and she won nearest the pin with her second shot on the 18th. The big hitters were on fire today. Dinie played her usual classy game making it all look so effortless.

We wish all our members who are not well a very speedy recovery and hope to see them all back swinging away very soon. Next week is Trophy Day. Happy Golfing.

Robyn Dorney

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MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 46

JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE I hope you all had a great two week holiday besides the wet weather and the few washed

out games. The 12's and 14's play at home this weekend which is great to see, so come along and support them. Also any help in the canteen would be much appreciated.

12's play at 10.00am and 14's at 10.50am

6 - 9's play at Muswellbrook 6's play at 10.20am 8's play at 1.00pm

9's play at 2.20pm Last weekend we had 10 kids from our mini teams travel to Newcastle on Saturday afternoon to play at the Knights Hunter Stadium before the main game, Knights v‘s

Manly. They all had a great time having the experience of playing in front of a big crowd. The best part was watching them walk out on that big field and the smiles on their faces were just priceless. It was even better when they got to form the guard of honour for the players as the Knights and Manly ran out on the field. There was also a couple of boys that stayed back after the game was finished and managed to get a few photos and autographs.

Zoe Jamieson

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MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 19 July 2012 Page 48

JULY

Thursday 19 Merriwa Ringer resumes for Term 3

Saturday 21 Pony Club Zone 7 Show Jumping School - Denman

Pallative Care Education Workshop

Merriwa Magpies Home Game - 3pm

Sunday 22 Pony Club Zone 7 Show Jumping School - Denman

Holy Trinity Confirmation — 10am

Pallative Care Education Workshop

Producers Market - Merriwa Sports Club - 8am - 11am

Wednesday 25 Mufti Bowls Day - Merriwa Sports Club

Thursday 26 Coolah Central School Horse Sports

Friday 27 HeART of the Country Exhibition - Local Artists - Pandora Gallery - Coolah

Coolah Central School Horse Sports

Messy Church - Anglican Parish Hall - 3.30pm

Saturday 28 Cassilis Public School Masquerade Ball - Cassilis Bowling Club - 6.30pm

Men‘s Breakfast

Sunday 29 Merriwa Pony Club Campdraft and Sporting Day

Smorgasbord Luncheon - Merriwa Sports Club

Monday 30 National Tree Planting Day

Entries close for ―Night Time‖ Photo competition

AUGUST

Wednesday 1 Ladies Bowlers Association Day - Murrurundi

Merriwa Central School Variety Night - School of Arts Hall, 7pm

Saturday 4 Muswellbrook Carelink Grief Seminar - 1pm - Muswellbrook Hospital Conference Room

Singleton Pony Club Show Jumping Competition

Sunday 5 Denman Farmers Markets

Singleton Pony Club Show Jumping Competition

Friday 10 ―Matt O‘Leary‖ - Merriwa Sports Club

Monday 13 Merriwa Central School Horse Sports

Saturday 18 Merriwa Show Ball

Sunday 19 Variety Bash visits Merriwa

Friday 24 Little Sprouts Reading Day

Saturday 25 Beginners DSLR Camera Course - Merriwa Central School Hall

Zone Pony Club ODE Competition

Sunday 26 Zone Pony Club ODE Competition

Thursday $11 chicken schnitzel night, normal menu also available.

Friday Happy hours 5-7pm,

Pick the joker $2,800 not claimed by anyone, jackpots to

$2,900.

Saturday Between 4.30 and 6.30 pm

social club draw, Happy hour 3 to 4pm,$2.70 middies $3.70

schooners. Mexican night assorted dishes plus $5

Coronas, main menu also available.

Sunday $12.50 roast, baked veg and

gravy, normal menu also available.

Tuesday $11 rump night, normal menu

also available.

Wednesday Between 4.30 and 6.30 pm social club draw. $10 pasta night, normal menu also

available

SOCIAL CLUB DRAWS $900 was not won by #23

Chisel on Wednesday . $950 was not won by #28 Anna Whaley on Saturday,

Jackpots to $1,000 on Wednesday.

AUSTAR NOW CONNECTED ALL FOOTBALL NRL, AFL, &

RUGBY UNION LIVE AS WELL AS MOTORSPORTS

AND FRIDAY NIGHT BOXING.

Dining room open for lunch

7 days a week, with 10 meals for $10 each

Dinner 7 nights with main menu and daily specials

Bar snacks every day

4.30pm

9kg gas bottles refilled for only $29.95

Bags of ice $3.50

BAR, BISTRO ACCOMMODATION

PH 6548 2235